550ex or a 430ex

[chunk]

just looking opinions on these flashes i would do mainly portraits , macro , cars
but never owned or used a flash before

i know the 550 could be a master etc and the 430 has a better recycle time but on ebay they are fetching the same money and i just cant decide nor do i feel saving few more quid would i really get the best usage out off the 580ex ii

so confused please help lol

 

[Al Brum]

Of those two I would recommend the 430EX, it tells the camera about WB etc which the 550 doesn't.

Personally, if I were in your shoes and could find the extra cash I'd get the 580EXii, I have the mk1 and it is excellent. The extra power really helps, plus you can supplememnt it with a 420 or 430 at a later time.

 

[Canon Bob]

There's little to choose between them as far as functionality goes. The 550 is a little more powerful (could be useful for your car shots) and, as you state, can be used as a master flash.
The 430 has the advantage of the flash zoom function if required.

For the same money, I'd go for the 550 with is control capabilities and then add a 430 later if you wanted additional lighting.

Bob